Last Update: 09/05/2006 Printer Friendly Printer Friendly   Email This Page Email This Page  

Birth Defects Initiative and Research Network

baby footIn 2000, the Developmental Biology, Genetics, and Teratology Branch began its Birth Defects Initiative with the stated mission of capitalizing on the revolutionary discoveries of the Human Genome Project and the extraordinary advances in biochemistry, genetics, and molecular and developmental biology to identify the genes, environmental factors, gene/environment interactions, and underlying mechanisms responsible for birth defects. The Branch has now created a network of researchers and settings where basic scientists could interact closely and synergistically with clinicians to enhance the translation of basic research findings into clinical applications. The Initiative includes the following sites and projects.